*2.1.1.4 Other psychotropic and neurotropic activities of TP Abs to S100*

Along with the above-described activities (stress-protective and anxiolytic), TP Abs to S100 were shown to exert:


#### **2.2 Mechanisms of action of TP Abs to S100**

TP Abs to S100 belong to a novel class of drugs that are produced from various antibodies (drug substances) using a single technological platform. This technology allows to obtain active pharmaceutical ingredients that, while retaining antibody specificity (targeting), exert a modulating effect on the target and its biological activity [71–73]. As the endogenous target of TP Abs to S100 is the brain-specific protein S100 that can influence functional activity of GABA-, serotonin-, dopamine-, noradrenaline-, and glutamatergic systems and sigma1 receptors [74–78], these CNS elements had been studied while screening TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action (**Figure 7**). For this purpose, various *in vivo* and *in vitro* approaches have been used (including the *in vitro* assessment of receptor's functional activity providing the validated protocols existed).

*2.2.1 GABA-ergic system involvement in TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action*

#### *2.2.1.1 GABA-A-ergic system*

To assess the role of this system in the implementation of TP Abs to S100 anxiolytic effect, GABA-A receptors were selectively blocked, and the behavior of animals was evaluated in the Vogel conflict test [29].

The study was performed on outbred white male rats weighing 230–250 g. Before testing, animals were administered TP Abs to S100 or diazepam. For blockade of the GABA-A receptors and the chloride channel of the GABAbenzodiazepine receptor complex, bicuculline and picrotoxin, respectively, were administered simultaneously with the tested drugs.

With blockade of the GABA-A receptor, a 1.8-fold decrease in the anticonflict effect of TP Abs to S100 was observed, and a 2-fold decrease with diazepam; with blockade of the chlorine channel—1.6 and 2.4-fold decrease, respectively (**Figure 4**). The data obtained indicate the involvement of the abovementioned subunits of the GABA-benzodiazepine-chloride ionophore receptor complex in the implementation of the anxiolytic effect of TP Abs to S100.

#### *2.2.1.2 GABA-B-ergic system*

In this experiment, GABA-B receptors were selectively stimulated or blocked and anxiolytic or antidepressant effects of TP Abs to S100, diazepam and amitriptyline were evaluated in the Vogel conflict test and the Nomura test [40].

Outbred white male rats weighing 200–250 g were pretreated with baclofen, a selective agonist of GABA-B receptors, or phaclofen, an antagonist of GABA-B receptors. Then, the animals were administered test drugs, and their effect was evaluated.

In the Vogel conflict test, baclofen reduced the anxiolytic effect of TP Abs to S100 by 2.2-fold and did not affect the effect of diazepam. Phaclofen increased the anxiolytic effect of TP Abs to S100 by 1.4-fold (**Figure 5**). Moreover, as expected, none of the ligands influenced the effect of diazepam.

#### **Figure 4.**

*Influence of GABA-A-ergic agents on anxiolytic activity of TP Abs to S100 and diazepam in the Vogel conflict test. Note: animals were intragastrically administered distilled water (2.5 ml/kg, control),TP Abs to S100 (2.5 ml/kg) or diazepam (2 mg/kg) at a single dose alone or simultaneously with GABA-A receptor antagonist bicuculline (1 mg/kg) or GABA-benzodiazepine receptor complex chloride channel blocker picrotoxin (1 mg/ kg) 30 minutes prior to testing. Data are expressed as M SD. \** <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus control, #* <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus TP Abs to S100 or diazepam. TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

#### **Figure 5.**

*Influence of GABA-В-ergic agents on anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of TP Abs to S100, diazepam, and amitriptyline in the Vogel conflict test and the Nomura test. Note: animals were intragastrically administered distilled water (2.5 ml/kg, control),TP Abs to S100 (2.5 ml/kg), diazepam (2 mg/kg), or amitriptyline (10 mg/kg) at a single dose. GABA-B receptors agonist baclofen (1 mg/kg) or antagonist phaclofen (10 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally administered 40 min prior to testing and 10 min prior to the administration of the drugs. Data are expressed as M SD. \** <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus control, #* <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus TP Abs to S100. TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

In the forced swim test, baclofen and phaclofen reduced the antidepressant effect of TP Abs to S100 by 1.5 and 2-fold, respectively, whereas these ligands did not affect the effectiveness of amitriptyline.

Thus, it was shown that the GABA-B-ergic system is involved in the realization of both the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of TP Abs to S100.

In an *in vitro* study, the ability of TP Abs to S100 to influence binding of the standard radioligands to the corresponding GABA receptors and to change the effect of the standard GABA-B1<sup>А</sup>/B2 receptor agonist (using functional analysis measuring [35S]GTPγS incorporation into G-proteins) was investigated [41]. The study was performed on the cell membranes of Chinese hamster cells (CHO) and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) that expressed human recombinant GABA-B1<sup>А</sup>/B2 receptors.

In the presence of TP Abs to S100, a 25.8% decrease in standard ligand binding to GABA-B1<sup>А</sup>/B2 receptor was observed, as well as 30.2% inhibition of the GABA-B1A/B2 receptor's agonist-induced response was observed.

#### *2.2.2 Serotoninergic system involvement in TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action*

Similarly, this hypothesis was studied in experiments *in vivo* and *in vitro*.

For the *in vivo* experiments, ketanserin, a blocker of 5-НТ2/5-НТ1<sup>С</sup> receptors involved in the development of both anxiety and depression, and the 5HT precursor, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), were used [79].

The anxiolytic effect of TP Abs to S100 was studied using the Vogel conflict test [30]. The antidepressant effect of the drugs was determined using the Nomura test [30]. Outbred white male rats weighing 200–250 g were pretreated with ketanserin or 5HTP, and before testing, they received a single dose of TP Abs to S100 or diazepam.

Ketanserin and 5HTP reduced both anxiolytic (2 and 1.3-fold, respectively) and antidepressant effects of TP Abs to S100 (2- and 1.6-fold, respectively) (**Figure 6**).

Thus, it was demonstrated that the 5HT system is involved in the realization of both the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of TP Abs to S100.

In an *in vitro* study, the ability of TP Abs to S100 to influence binding of standard radiolabeled ligands to the corresponding 5HT receptors and the ability to change the magnitude of the effect on binding of standard ligands to their receptors

#### **Figure 6.**

*Influence of serotoninergic agents on anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of TP Abs to S100, diazepam, and amitriptyline in the Vogel conflict test and the Nomura test. Note: animals were intragastrically administered distilled water (2.5 ml/kg, control),TP Abs to S100 (2.5 ml/kg), diazepam (2 mg/kg), or amitriptyline (15 mg/kg) at a single dose. 5-НТ2 receptors antagonist ketanserin (1 mg/kg) or the serotonin precursor 5 hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP, 50 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally administered 40 min prior to testing and 10 min prior to administration of the drugs. Data are expressed as M SD. \** <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus control, #* <sup>р</sup> *<sup>&</sup>lt; 0.05 versus TP Abs to S100. TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

were tested. The latter was investigated using a functional analysis of the binding of [ 35S]GTPγS, calcium mobilization assay, and dielectric spectroscopy or by measuring the intracellular concentration of cAMP using HTRF (Homogenous Time Resolved Fluorescence) technology. The experiments were performed on CHO cells stably expressing human 5HT1A, 5HT1B, 5HT1D, 5HT1E, 5HT1F, 5HT2A, 5HT2B, 5HT2Cedited, 5HT3, 5HT4, 5HT6, or 5HT7 receptors [41].

TP Abs to S100 increased binding of the corresponding standard ligands to 5HT1A (19.0%), 5HT1F (42.0%), 5HT2B (31.9%), 5HT2Cedited (49.3%), and 5HT3 (20.7%) receptors. Moreover, the drug enhanced the effect of 5HT1A receptor agonist by 27.8% and reduced the effect of 5HT1B receptor agonist by 27.5%.

#### *2.2.3 Dopaminergic system involvement in TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action*

The *in vitro* experiment was carried out similar to the study of the effect of TP Abs to S100 on dopamine receptors [41].

The study was performed on CHO, HEK293, and pituitary rat tumor cells (GH4) stably expressing human D1, D2L, D2S, D3, D4.4 or D5 receptors.

TP Abs to S100 increased binding of the standard ligand to the human D3 receptor by 26.3% and reduced the effect of an agonist of this type of receptor by 32.8%.

#### *2.2.4 Glutamatergic system involvement in TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action*

In this study that was performed *in vitro* using rat cerebral cortex cells, TP Abs to S100 significantly reduced binding of the standard radiolabeled ligand to the glycine site of NMDA receptors [80].

#### *2.2.5 Sigma1 receptors involvement in TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action*

The study was carried out *in vitro* using MCF-7 or Jurkat cells [41].

TP Abs to S100 significantly (by 24.7–56.7%) reduced binding of the standard radiolabeled ligand to human sigma1 receptors (**Figure 7**).

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

#### **Figure 7.**

*Schematic representation of TP Abs to S100 mechanisms of action. Note: TP Abs to S100 (technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein) molecular target—brain-specific S100 protein. This protein is secreted mainly by astrocytes in the CNS and considered to be an important regulator of many intracellular and extracellular processes (e.g., protein phosphorylation, activity of various enzymes, the dynamics of cytoskeleton components, binding of transcription factors, calcium homeostasis, cell proliferation and differentiation, generation and transmission of nerve impulses, and synaptic transmission [81]). Moreover, S100 proteins interact with almost every neurotransmitter system (serotonin-, dopamine-, GABA-, glutamatergic, etc.) and sigma1 receptors [74–78].* TP Abs to S100 *possess their pharmacological effects via modulating activity of brain-specific S100 protein and influencing functions of the major neurotransmitter systems as well as sigma1 receptors.* In vivo *studies [29, 40] revealed 5-HT2a, GABAA, and GABAB receptor involvement in the drug psychotropic effects. Also, the drug was shown to normalize noradrenaline level [82].* In vitro *studies [41, 42] have shown that* TP Abs to S100 *increase standard radioligand binding to 5-HT1F, 5- HT2B, 5-HT2Cedited, 5-HT3, NMDA, and D3 receptors. In addition, the drug inhibits binding of specific radioligands to GABAB1A/B2 and sigma1 receptors and exerts antagonism at GABAB1A/B2, 5-HT1B, and D3 receptors and agonism at 5-HT1A receptor. The above listed* TP Abs to S100 *activities at the molecular level are involved in maintaining both emotional and physiological homeostasis, and thereby, the drug exerts its stressprotective, anxiolytic, antiamnestic, antidepressant, neuroprotective, and other activities.*

#### **2.3 Safety investigation**

#### *2.3.1 Assessment of a possible sedative effect*

The study was performed on outbred white male rats weighing 230–250 g. Prior to testing (in OF test), animals were administered TP Abs to S100 or diazepam. The sedative effect was evaluated by a decrease in the horizontal activity of rats [7].

TP Abs to S100 did not decrease the motor activity of animals, while diazepam decreased this parameter by 1.5 times.

#### *2.3.2 Assessment of a possible muscle relaxant effect*

This activity was investigated in the rotarod test on outbred white male rats weighing 230–250 g [33]. Before testing, animals were administered TP Abs to S100 or diazepam. Then, the time before falling off the rotating rod and the number of rats that fell off were recorded.

TP Abs to S100 did not affect the coordination of movements and did not have a muscle relaxant effect. In contrast, only 30% of rats from diazepam group were able to keep balance.

#### *2.3.3 Toxicological studies of TP Abs to S100*

The drug safety investigation was performed in accordance with principles of Good Laboratory Practice. It included studies of the single and repeat dose

toxicities, genotoxicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity, immunotoxicity, and local tolerance.

TP Abs to S100 exerted no toxic effects even at a dose significantly exceeding the human recommended daily dose. The drug was shown to be well tolerated and thereby considered to be a low-hazard substance.

## **3. Clinical efficacy and safety of TP Abs to S100 protein in the treatment of NDs**

#### **3.1 Treatment of AD, AjD, SD, and neurasthenia**

To date, 453 patients with AD, AjD, and neurasthenia took part in double-blind randomized controlled CTs (*n* = 2), and open-label comparative randomized CTs (n = 4) conducted in the Russian Federation and Kazakhstan according to International Conference on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice and Declaration of Helsinki [55, 57–60, 83]. Two studies were registered and approved by the regulatory agency (Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation) [55, 57].

#### *3.1.1 Placebo-controlled studies*

#### *3.1.1.1 CT in patients with AD and neurological diseases*

A double-blind placebo-controlled CT of TP Abs to S100 in the treatment of AD in patients with neurological diseases [Parkinson's disease (PD) (G.20) and chronic cerebrovascular diseases (CCD)—cerebral atherosclerosis (I67.2), hypertensive encephalopathy (I67.4), unspecified sequelae of cerebral infarction (I69.3)] was conducted in 2010 ([55], unpublished data). Sixty-two patients of both sexes aged 18–75 years were enrolled and randomized in two groups to receive TP Abs to S100 (*n* = 32) 10 tablets/day or placebo 10 tablets/day. Data from all 62 patients were included in the analysis, so that intention-to-treat and per-protocol sets were equal. The use of any antidepressants, antipsychotics, or antianxiety medications was prohibited in CT. The therapy of concurrent somatic and neurological diseases was permitted.

The study duration was 4 weeks with a 4-week follow-up period. Inclusion criteria were: manifested AD, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety (HADS-A) score ≥ 11, signed informed consent form (ICF). The percentage of patients with a ≥50% decrease in the severity of anxiety according to the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) after 4 weeks of treatment and 4-week follow-up was set as a primary efficacy endpoint. Other efficacy endpoints were: mean decrease in HAM-A, HADS-A, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scores after 4 weeks of treatment and 4-week follow-up. Safety was assessed based on the results of laboratory tests (blood and urine analysis) and adverse events reports. Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Student *t*-test, and Fisher's exact test were used for analysis.

The mean age of patients enrolled was 59.5 2.0 years in the TP Abs to S100 group and 60.0 1.9 years in the placebo group. The mean duration of neurological disease was 6.13 1.2 years in the TP Abs to S100 group and 6.55 0.89 years in the placebo group. No differences in demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were found (**Table 4**).

The percentage of patients with a ≥50% decrease in HAM-A total score was 41.3% in the TP Abs to S100 group and 6.7% in the placebo group (*p* < 0.05 compared to placebo) after 4 weeks of therapy (**Table 4**). After 4 weeks of therapy, the total HAM-A score significantly decreased in the TP Abs to S100 group [a 1.8-fold decrease (45.63 2.61%) from baseline in the TP Abs to S100 group

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*


*Note: Data are expressed as M SD. HAM-A, Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale; HADS-A, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety; STAI, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; CCD, chronic cerebrovascular disease; PD, Parkinson's disease; TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

#### **Table 4.**

*Demographic and clinical characteristics, baseline, and post-treatment data on patients in double-blind placebo controlled CT of TP Abs to S100.*

versus a 1.1-fold (or 13.09 3.3%) decrease in the placebo group; Student's *t*-test *р* < 0.05]. The result of therapy persisted during the follow-up period in the TP Abs to S100 group. The anxiety level additionally decreased by 3% (48.19 2.1% from baseline in total) by the end of the follow-up period (*p* < 0.05 compared to placebo). The percentage of patients with a ≥50% decrease in HAM-A total score additionally increased by 3.3% after 4 weeks of follow-up (*p* < 0.05 compared to placebo) (**Figure 8**).

A significant decrease in the severity of anxiety was shown in patients receiving TP Abs to S100 according to HADS-A after 4 weeks of therapy and 4 weeks of follow-up (*p* < 0.05 compared to the placebo group). There was a 1.4-fold decrease

#### **Figure 8.**

*Dynamics of the severity of anxiety in TP Abs to S100 and placebo groups. \**р *< 0.05 versus placebo (Student's* t*-test). HAM-A, Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale; TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

(60.09 1.05 vs. 43.65 0.85) in state anxiety according to STAI in the TP Abs to S100 group after 4 weeks of therapy and result of therapy persisted during the follow-up period. The efficacy rate in reduction of the anxiety was higher in CCD patients than in PD patients according to STAI.

Data from 62 patients were included in the safety analysis. There were two AEs (pyrosis and burping) in one patient received TP Abs to S100 and one AE (pyrosis) in one patient in the placebo group. There was no significant difference in the frequency of AEs between groups. Neither TP Abs to S100 nor placebo influenced results of blood or urine tests in patients. All AEs were of medium severity and had no definite relationship with the study drug. No serious AEs were registered.

TP Abs to S100 were shown to be an effective drug for the treatment of AD in adult patients with concurrent neurological diseases.

#### *3.1.1.2 Clinical trials in patients with SD*

An international multicenter double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study in 390 patients of both sexes aged 18–45 years with SD (mostly), AjD, or neurasthenia and ≥11 HADS-A points was conducted in 2017–2019 in the Russian Federation and Kazakhstan [57]. There were four treatment groups receiving TP Abs to S100 or placebo in two dosage regimens: 4 or 8 tablets/day. Preliminary (yet unpublished) data on primary efficacy endpoint showed the decrease in the mean HAM-A score by 11.25 points in TP Abs to S100 group (4 tablets/day) and by 11.91 points in TP Abs to S100 8 tablets/day groups observed after 12 weeks of treatment (vs. 9.71 points in merged placebo group; ANCOVA: pTP Abs to S100 4 tablets per day/placebo = 0.0055, pTP Abs to S100 8 tablets per day /placebo < 0.0001). A detailed analysis of the results is currently being prepared for a publication. Complete information on the study design is available at clinicaltrials.gov NCT 03036293 [57].

#### *3.1.2 Comparison of the TP Abs to S100 efficacy and safety with benzodiazepines*

To evaluate the advantages and limitations of novel medication, especially in the treatment of mental disorders, it is necessary to compare its efficacy and safety not only with placebo but also with the "golden standard" treatment [84].

#### *Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

Benzodiazepines are usually chosen as such a standard in CTs in patients with NDs and, in particular, ADs. Therefore, four CTs with the use of bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine, diazepam, clonazepam, and tofisopam as the control therapy were conducted [58–60].

## *3.1.2.1 Open-label comparative randomized CT of TP Abs to S100 and bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine*

Outpatients aged 18–65 years (*n* = 59) with a diagnosis of GAD (F41.1), AjD (F43.2), or neurasthenia (F48.0) who signed ICF participated in this open-label randomized CT [58]. One group of patients (*n* = 32) received TP Abs to S100 4 tablets/day, and the other (*n* = 27) was administered bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine 1.5 mg/day for 28 days. Exclusion criteria were other mental diseases, severe somatic diseases, pregnancy, or lactation period. Any medications that could influence the emotional state of participants were prohibited for use for 1 week prior to the initiation of CT and during the study.

Efficacy was evaluated based on the results of the HAM-A test and Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scale (CGI-I) after 7, 14, and 28 days of treatment. The frequency of AEs and any deviations from the reference ranges in blood and urine tests was used for safety assessment. The Kruskal-Wallis test, ANOVA, and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for statistical analysis.

The mean age of patients was 34.8 3.6 years in TP Abs to S100 and 36.3 4.6 years in bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine group. The mean duration of disease was 0.8 0.6 years and 0.9 0.5 years in TP Abs to S100 and bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine groups, respectively (**Table 5**). No significant differences between groups in any demographic and clinical characteristics were found.

After 7 days of treatment, the severity of anxiety was reduced by 41% (from 18.2 3.91 to 10.73 5.02) in the TP Abs to S100 group and by 56.2% (from 21.24 3.25 to 9.29 4.24) in the comparison group according to HAM-A scale. No significant differences between groups were found after the first week of treatment (*p* = 0.41), and TP Abs to S100 were shown to be as effective as bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine in the short-term period. After 14 and 28 days the anxiolytic effect in the group, receiving benzodiazepine drug was superior to that in the TP Abs to S100 group (*p* < 0.05 between groups). In accordance with CGI-I results, the level of improvement was found to be similar in both groups (*p* = 0.004) on the 7th and 14th days, but later, bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine led to a significant decrease in the severity of illness after 28 days of treatment (*p* > 0.05 between groups).

The frequency of AEs was higher in the benzodiazepine group. There were several cases of severe daytime sleepiness, disturbance of accommodation, and muscle weakness in patients that received bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine. Some patients in the study group reported mild sleepiness. No severe AEs were registered in the TP Abs to S100 group. Neither TP Abs to S100 nor benzodiazepine administration affected results of blood or urine tests in patients.

Thus, TP Abs to S100 were as effective as the control medication only in the short-term period according to HAM-A but caused no severe AEs in patients with GAD, AjD, and neurasthenia comparing to benzodiazepine.

#### *3.1.2.2 Open-label comparative randomized CT of TP Abs to S100 and diazepam*

Diazepam is the most frequent standard drug used in CTs of anxiolytic agents [85]. This open-label randomized CT was conducted under the regulation of the


*Note: Data are expressed as M SD. HAM-A, Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale; CGI-I, Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scale; TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

#### **Table 5***.*

*Demographic and clinical characteristics, baseline, and post-treatment data of patients in comparative CT of TP Abs to S100 and bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine.*

Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation [unpublished data]. Outpatients aged 18–65 years with GAD (F41.1), AjD (F43.2), neurasthenia (F48.0) (total *n* = 272), and mixed anxiety and depressive disorder (mADD) (F41.2) signed ICF and then were randomized to receive TP Abs to S100 (*n* = 142) 6 tablets/day or diazepam (*n* = 130) 15 mg/day for 28 days. All medications influencing the emotional state were prohibited for use 1 week prior to CT initiation and during the study. Diagnosis of any other psychiatric disorder, pregnancy, lactation period, substance abuse, and severe somatic diseases were set as the exclusion criteria. Efficacy was measured using the HAM-A scale and STAI. Safety was assessed based on the AE reports and results of blood and urine tests.

The mean age of patients was 40.4 1.13 in TP Abs to S100 group and 39.6 1.06 in the diazepam group. The mean duration of NDs was 31.9 4.1 and 29.2 3.23 months in the TP Abs to S100 and diazepam groups, respectively. In the TP Abs to S100 group, 27.5% of patients had GAD, 31.3%—neurasthenia, 24.4%—AjD, and 17%—mADD. Among patients administered diazepam 31.6% had GAD, 37% neurasthenia, 17.5%—AjD, and 14.8%—mADD. Mean HAM-A score was 27.1 0.5 in the TP Abs to S100 group and 28.1 0.46 in the diazepam group (*p* = 0.3). No differences in baseline characteristics were observed.

The total HAM-A score decreased to 22.0 0.5 in TP Abs to S100 group at the end of the first week of therapy (*p* < 0.001 compared to baseline). There was a 57.2% decrease in total HAM-A score in the TP Abs to S100 group after 28 days of treatment (vs. 63% in the diazepam group, *p* = 0.02) (**Figure 9**).

The percentage of patients with a ≥50% decrease in HAM-A total score was 72.6% in the TP Abs to S100 group (vs. 65.8% in the diazepam group) after 28 days of treatment. There were 12.8% of patients in TP Abs to S100 group with anxiety remission (less than 7 HAM-A scores) (vs. 22.1% in diazepam group). There were no significant differences between the TP Abs to S100 and diazepam groups on 7th

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

#### **Figure 9.**

*Dynamics of the severity of anxiety in the TP Abs to S100 and diazepam groups. \** р *< 0.05 versus baseline. HAM-A, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale; TP Abs to S100, technologically processed highly diluted antibodies to S100 protein.*

and 28th days of treatment according to the HAM-A section "anxiety mood" (*p* = 0.2 and *p* = 0.1 between groups). Treatment with diazepam was more effective only at the 14th day of treatment [48.0 0.62 (diazepam) vs. 50.0 0.52 (TP Abs to S100), *p* = 0.02 comparing to the TP Abs to S100 group] according to STAI (state anxiety). The influence of TP Abs to S100 and diazepam on state anxiety was equal on the 7th and 28th days of therapy (*p* = 0.2 between groups). Diazepam and TP As to S100 were of equal efficacy in reducing the trait anxiety after 14 days [49.7 0.60 (TP Abs to S100) vs. 51.0 0.55 (diazepam); *p* = 0.1 between groups].

Only eight (5.6%) patients in the TP Abs to S100 group reported AEs (sleepiness, dizziness, dry mouth, pyrosis, bloating, excessive sweating, decreased libido, and tachycardia) of mild and moderate severity. In contrast, in the diazepam group, 51 (39.2%) patients had AEs (most frequent—daytime sleepiness, muscle relaxation, orthostatic hypotension) (*p* < 0.01).

To summarize the data, we consider TP Abs to S100 less effective than diazepam, though TP Abs to S100 were well tolerated by patients with GAD, AjD, neurasthenia, or mADD and exerted significantly less AEs in contrast to diazepam.

#### *3.1.2.3 Open-label comparative randomized CT of TP Abs to S100 and clonazepam*

In this open-label CT, 60 patients with AjD (*n* = 35) or SD (*n* = 25) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) (coronary heart disease (CHD), arterial hypertension (AH) grades II–III, postmyocarditis cardiosclerosis, dyshormonal myocardial dystrophy with cardiac arrhythmias, ventricular and supraventricular extrasystoles, atrial fibrillation, and heart defects) were randomly prescribed to receive TP Abs to S100 6 tablets/day (*n* = 30) or clonazepam 0.5–1 mg/day (*n* = 20) as an anxiolytic treatment in addition to standard therapy of CVD for 28 days after signing an ICF [59]. The control group (*n* = 10) was not administered any antianxiety medication. No drugs influencing the mental status of participants were allowed 1 week prior to CT and after the onset of CT. The reduction of HAM-A score was set as an efficacy endpoint. Safety was assessed based on the number of reported AEs, changes in electrocardiogram (in TP Abs to S100 group), and results of blood and urine tests.

At the baseline mean, HAM-A score was 20.75 8.3 in the TP Abs to S100 group, 22.3 8.1 in the clonazepam group, and 14.7 5.6 in control. After 28 days of treatment, the mean HAM-A score was reduced by 30.1% in patients that received TP Abs to S100 (to 14.5 5.6; *p* < 0.01 vs. baseline), by 30.04% in the clonazepam group (to 15.6 6.2; *p* < 0.01 vs. baseline) and 24.5% in the control group (to 11.1 4.1; *p* > 0.05 vs. baseline). Patients in the TP Abs to S100 group reported no AEs and no changes were found on electrocardiogram or blood and urine tests. On the contrary, the extrasystoles in two participants with dyshormonal myocardial dystrophy that received TP Abs to S100 became less frequent (from 3122 to 2040) after 14 days of treatment. Patients in the clonazepam group (*n* = 5) noted a slowdown in mental and motor reactions, a feeling of tiredness, and daytime sleepiness.

Thus, TP Abs to S100 appeared to be slightly less effective than clonazepam but at the same time exerted less AEs that are important for patients with not only the AjD alone but also for those with CVD.

#### *3.1.2.4 Open-label comparative randomized CT of TP Abs to S100 and tofisopam*

Patients (*n* = 51) with GAD or mADD and CVD (CHD or AH grades II–III) signed ICF and then were randomized into two groups. The first group (*n* = 31) received TP Abs to S100 4 tablets/day, the second (*n* = 20)—tofisopam 100 mg/day for 4 weeks in addition to standard CVD therapy [60]. After 4 weeks of treatment, patients were followed up for the next 4 weeks. Patients that previously received antianxiety or antidepressant medications, diagnosed with other mental diseases, having a history of substance abuse or lactose intolerance were not included in CT. The changes in HAM-A score after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment and after 4-week follow-up were set as efficacy endpoints. Safety was evaluated by analysis of AEs.

The mean age of patients in the TP Abs to S100 group was 49.3 7.0 years, and the mean duration of CVD was 8.2 4.5 years. In the tofisopam group, the mean age was 54 5.2, and the duration of CVD was 7.6 2.9 years. No differences in baseline characteristics were registered. During the treatment, anxiety was reduced by 63% after 1 week, by 73.1% after 2 weeks, and by 78.5% after 4 weeks in the TP Abs to S100 group according to HAM-A. There was a decrease in HAM-A scores by 62.5% after 1 week, by 75% after 2 weeks, and by 78.5% after 4 weeks in the tofisopam group. A positive effect of TP Abs to S100 on anxiety state was maintained for 4 weeks during follow-up, while there was a tendency for an increase in HAM-A score in the tofisopam group. The addition of TP Abs to S100 to standard CVD therapy helped to decrease the mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) by 25% (from 161.5 18.5 mmHg to 122 5.0 mmHg) after 4 weeks of treatment, whereas only 15.9% decrease in mean SBP was shown in the tofisopam group. No serious AEs were registered in both groups. In the TP Abs to S100 and tofisopam groups, 3.2 and 10% of patients, respectively, discontinued the treatment for personal reasons.

Thus, TP Abs to S100 were shown to be as effective as tofisopam. The compliance in the TP Abs to S100 group was slightly higher than that in the tofisopam group. The addition of TP Abs to S100 to standard CVD treatment led to a more prominent decrease in the mean SBP than the addition of tofisopam. TP Abs to S100 achieved more prolonged action on anxiety state than tofisopam.

#### **3.2 Treatment of anxiety, accompanying somatic diseases**

The use of anxiolytic treatment in the patients with chronic somatic diseases is challenging [86]. Many side effects of benzodiazepines such as drowsiness, sleepiness, cognitive impairment, dizziness, and addiction can be crucial for these

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

patients [87]. Polypharmacy is also an unwanted phenomenon. The negative interaction of antianxiety medications with standard therapy of somatic diseases is frequently observed [88]. For instance, the use of SSRI in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increases the risk of gastrointestinal tract bleeding [89]. Some authors described the association between high risk of myocardial infarction and the use of benzodiazepines and antidepressants [90]. So, the search for a possible role of TP Abs to S100 in treatment of patients with the somatic disease is relevant.

#### *3.2.1 Cardiovascular diseases*

Around 40% of patients with CVD experience anxiety that can have a negative impact on the risk of adverse cardiovascular events [91, 92]. Thus, it is important to reduce anxiety symptoms in CVD patients.

Two CTs that compared TP Abs to S100 with clonazepam and tofisopam in patients with CVD were described above [59, 60]. The results showed equal efficacy of TP Abs to S100 and tofisopam in CVD patients.

In another open-label randomized comparative CT by Nikol'skaya et al., TP Abs to S100 were used in combination with the standard treatment of patients with AH grades II–III and anxiety (*n* = 60, 23 women, 37 men; mean age—61.4 6.9, mean AH duration—10.6 4.1 years) [93]. All patients received diuretics, β blockers, and angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors). Randomly chosen participants (*n* = 30) were additionally prescribed TP Abs to S100 6 tablets/day for 4 weeks. At the baseline, there were 40% of patients with severe anxiety and 60% with the anxiety of moderate severity in the TP Abs to S100 group according to the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale (TMAS) modified by Nemchinov. Sixty percent of patients with severe anxiety and 56.6% with the anxiety of moderate severity made up the control group were receiving no antianxiety therapy.

The 1.3-fold reduction of severity of anxiety (from 23.76 2.81 to 18.83 2.75 TMAS points) after 2 weeks of therapy was shown in the TP Abs to S100 group (*p* < 0.0001 vs. baseline and the control group). There was a 24.28% decrease in SBP from 181.7 10.8 to 140.0 8.3 (*p* < 0.0001 vs. baseline and control) after 4 weeks of therapy in the TP Abs to S100 group. There was a 17.7% decrease in diastolic blood pressure from 102.3 4.3 to 85.0 5.7 in the study drug group after 4 weeks of therapy (*p* < 0.0001 vs. baseline and the control group). No negative interactions with standard therapy were registered for TP Abs to S100.

Matyushin et al. demonstrated the efficacy and safety of TP Abs to S100 in an open-label randomized comparative CT in patients (*n* = 60) with anxiety measured with HAM-A and CHD, AH grades II–III, angina pectoris I–III functional classes by Canadian Cardiovascular Society Classification, heart rhythm disturbances (extrasystole, paroxysmal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias) receiving standard CVD therapy (β blockers, amiodarone, sotalol, lappaconitine hydrobromide, diethylaminopropionylethoxycarbonylaminophenothiazine, etc.) [94]. The study drug group (*n* = 30) received TP Abs to S100 6 tablets/day, and the control group (*n* = 30) was administered only CVD treatment for 8 weeks. The mean age of patients in TP Abs to S100 and control groups was 64.4 8.6 and 63.1 8.5, respectively.

The addition of TP Abs to S100 to the standard therapy in patients with angina pectoris I–III functional classes helped to decrease the severity of anxiety (50.4% decrease vs. 32.3% decrease in the TP Abs to S100 group vs. the control group; *p* < 0.05) and caused cardiac rhythm normalization [80% patients with more than 75% decrease in the frequency of daily episodes of rhythm disturbances in the study group (*p* < 0.05 vs. control)]. There were 60% of patients with a decrease in angina pectoris functional class in the study drug group (vs. 33.3% in

control; *p* < 0.05 between groups). No AEs and negative drug interactions were registered.

An open-label placebo-controlled study in 85 patients with acute coronary syndrome and anxiety (diagnosed with HADS-A) showed significant improvement in the quality of life assessed with the Short Form-36 in the TP Abs to S100 group after 6 month of therapy [95]. The 1.7-fold decrease in HADS-A score (from 12.1 [9;17] to 7.1 [6;8]) was observed in patients receiving TP Abs to S100 in combination with standard therapy after 6 months (*p* = 0.00008 vs. baseline). No reduction of anxiety according to HADS-A was found in the placebo group after 6 months (*p* = 0.07 vs. baseline). No negative interaction with standard therapy (acetylsalicylic acid, clopidogrel, enoxaparin, statins, ACE inhibitors, β blockers, nitrates, calcium agonists) was registered.

Thus, TP Abs to S100 is an effective anxiolytic medication that helps to reduce the severity of anxiety as well as to avoid drug interaction, polypharmacy and increase the quality of life. According to some CTs mentioned above, TP Abs to S100 increase the efficacy of standard treatment in patients with AH, angina pectoris, and some heart rhythm disturbances due to their antianxiety action. Due to reduction in severity of anxiety, the improvement of compliance in CVD patients is possible, though this consideration requires further investigation.

#### *3.2.2 Gastrointestinal diseases*

Anxiety is common in 20% of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) problems [96] and in 27% of patients with gastritis in particular [97]. Some publications revealed an association between mood disorders and the risk of carcinogenesis in patients with GI diseases [98, 99]. The necessity for antianxiety therapy in these patients is justified.

An open-label comparative study by Tsukanov et al. in patients with anxiety (diagnosed with HAM-A) complicating ulcerative gastritis associated with *Helicobacter pylori* and duodenal ulcers was conducted [100]. One hundred and two participants received standard helicobacter eradication therapy (clarithromycin, amoxicillin, omeprazole, algeldrate—magnesium hydroxide combination drug), and 49 of them were prescribed TP Abs to S100 6 tablets/day for 20 days. Mean age of participants was 41.8 2.4 in the TP Abs to S100 group (*n* = 49) and 42.3 2.8 in the control group (*n* = 53). The dynamics of HAM-A scale scores was evaluated.

Anxiety was significantly reduced in the TP Abs to S100 group after 20 days of treatment. The mean HAM-A score decreased by 55.2% from 23.43 1.8 to 10.5 0.98 (vs. 28% in the control group; *p* < 0.001 vs. baseline; *p* < 0.001 vs. control group). No serious AEs were registered in both groups.

According to another open-label noncomparative CT by Karpin et al. in patients with chronic gastritis and duodenal ulcers, the addition of TP Abs to S100 to standard treatment leads to a prominent reduction in GI symptoms (pain, intestinal dyspepsia, appetite changes) (*p* = 0.003 vs. baseline for pain and dyspepsia, *p* = 0.045 for appetite changes) [101].

So, the treatment of patients with GI diseases with TP Abs to S100 helps to reduce anxiety and indirectly decrease the severity of somatic symptoms via its anxiolytic action.

#### **4. Conclusions**

In this review, the data obtained from experimental and clinical studies of TP Abs to S100 efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action are summarized.

*Technologically Processed Highly Diluted Antibodies to S100 Protein in the Treatment… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92207*

In nonclinical trials, TP Abs to S100 were shown to exert stress-protective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, antiamnestic, and neuroprotective activities. All these effects were manifested at the same level as the activity of comparator drugs. At the same time, toxicological studies have shown a high safety level of TP Abs to S100: there was no any toxic activity of drug reviled even when it was administered to laboratory animals at the maximal dose for 6 consecutive months (every day).

The mechanisms of action studies confirmed the hypothesis that TP Abs to S100 biological effects are realized via recruiting of GABA-, serotonin-, dopamine-, noradrenaline-, and glutamatergic systems, as well as via sigma1 receptors.

Clinical efficacy and safety of TP Abs to S100 were demonstrated in multicenter double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials and in open-label randomized comparative trials. In all conducted placebo-comparative studies or studies with nonmedicated control group, the main symptom of most NDs—the anxiety—was significantly reduced in TP Abs to S100 action. It should be stressed that in these CTs, the equal efficacy of TP Abs to S100, tofisopam, and bromdihydrochlorphenylbenzodiazepine (in the short-term use) with a notably higher tolerance level was demonstrated. Meanwhile, TP Abs to S100 increased the efficacy of standard treatment of somatic diseases (due to its anxiolytic activity), and there was a lower number of AEs and lack of drug interactions observed in the TP Abs to S100 group.

Thus, the discussed drug—TP Abs to S100—has been extensively studied and demonstrated favorable efficacy and safety profile. The presented evidence justifies TP Abs to S100 to be a promising treatment option for patients with NDs.

## **Acknowledgements**

We thank Dr. Kovalchuk A.L. for valuable comments on the paper and language editing.

#### **Conflict of interest**

All authors are the employees of OOO NPF Materia Medica Holding pharmaceutical company. The substance TP ABS to S100 is produced and marketed by OOO NPF Materia Medica Holding.

#### **Abbreviations**


